Crossing the Finish Line with Energy and Intention

I don’t know about you but as the year is winding down, so too is my energy and Im looking forward to getting to the finish line.  For me that is some time away from my desk and some Christmas pudding.  That doesn’t mean there are not still deadlines to meet, to-do lists to be done, wrapped up in the fatigue of a big twelve months. For many leaders, this time of year can feel like even more of a juggling act: trying to tie up loose ends while resisting the urge to check out entirely.   So, how can you make it through the final stretch with your energy, focus, and smile intact?

My strategy for these final weeks of 2024 is to prioritise what really matters, finish strong, and set myself up for an even bigger and more intentional year ahead.  Here’s how I’m approaching it.

Be Clear On What Really Matters

The end of the year can often feel like a whirlwind of finishing things off. But not everything on your list can be your top priority. Ask yourself:

• What truly needs my attention right now?  Or what can’t wait?
• What can wait until next year?
• What can I delegate to others?

Separating the “must-dos” from the “nice-to-dos” is essential. Use a simple prioritisation method, like the Eisenhower Matrix (urgent vs. important), to help you stay laser-focused on tasks that will have the most significant impact. Remember, it’s okay to say no or renegotiate deadlines if something isn’t critical.

My other tip is to tick off some of the “can wait until next year” if you can.  Your future self will thank you for it when you make it back to your desk in January.

Focus on Energy Over Time

By December, we can find ourselves running on fumes. Tune in to your energy levels and recognise the signs of burnout, such as negative internal thoughts, trouble concentrating, or physical fatigue. Your body and mind are sending you valuable messages about what’s working and what’s not.  The question is, are you listening?

Take a moment to ask yourself:

• Am I working in a way that’s sustainable?
• What adjustments could I make to my workload or habits next year to protect my energy?

This reflection isn’t just about making it to the finish line; it’s about our state when we arrive there.  Ending the year with an empty tank, feeling like we desperately need a break, doesn’t set us up to enjoy it.  How can you prepare for success and wellbeing in the future?  

Celebrate Small Wins

In the rush to get everything done, it’s easy to forget how much you’ve already accomplished. Take a step back and acknowledge your progress, big or small. Celebrating wins gives us the motivation to keep going.  

What win are you most proud of this year?

Create Clear Boundaries

This is not just for the end of the year, but a good habit to always maintain.  It’s vital to carve out time to recharge. Protect your personal time and prioritise activities that replenish your energy.  Our productivity and creativity depend on it.

Finish with Gratitude

Gratitude is a powerful motivator. As you navigate the final push, take a moment to appreciate the people and opportunities that made a difference in your year. Simply reflecting on your own growth and the importance of the people around you, gratitude shifts your mindset and gets you to the finish line on a positive note.

Heading into the New Year with Intention

When you cross the finish line, take pride in the effort you’ve put in. But don’t forget: how you finish matters. Ending the year in a way that aligns with your values and priorities not only feels good but sets a positive tone for the year to come.

As you reflect on your energy and workload, consider what you want to carry forward and what you’re ready to leave behind. Maybe it’s letting go of unnecessary meetings, carving out time for strategic thinking, more movement or spending time in nature. Whatever it is, use these insights to shape a fresh, more intentional approach to the new year.

So, here’s to the final push—finishing strong, learning from the journey, and stepping into next year with clarity, focus, and optimism. Let’s cross that line with a smile on our face, ready to embrace whatever comes next.